Student payments sit at just 36% of the minimum wage.  When health issues arise , young Australians face hard choices about what really is important for their survival. Currently, crisis payments exist for people leaving psychiatric hospitals, domestic abuse situations or natural disasters but not for those leaving potentially life altering hospital admissions. 

Like many young people, I cycled through numerous doctors until I found one who would take me seriously. During my battle with cancer, I experienced firsthand the challenges and uncertainties of being discharged from the hospital without adequate financial support. The burden of medical bills, coupled with the inability to work, left me in a dire situation where financial stability seemed unattainable.

For many Australians, leaving the hospital can be a moment filled with relief and the promise of recovery. However, it also marks the beginning of a new set of challenges, especially for those without a robust support system. Hospital discharge can lead to sudden financial distress as individuals transition from inpatient care back to their everyday lives. This transition can be particularly difficult for people lacking the resources to cope with the immediate financial burdens, such as additional medical expenses, medications, and daily living costs, all while they recover and may be unable to return to work.

This gap leaves many vulnerable individuals in a precarious position, especially those dealing with severe health conditions. It's crucial that leaving hospital care is recognised as a valid reason to access a crisis payment.  This payment will give young people access to the specialist appointments they require and preventive care which will make a significant difference in the lives of those trying to rebuild their health and stability.

Including hospital discharge in the eligibility criteria for crisis payments would not only alleviate immediate financial stress but also allow patients to focus on their recovery without the constant worry about finances. We urge policymakers and stakeholders to consider the struggles faced by patients post-discharge and revise the guidelines of Australia's social support system to incorporate this essential change.

Ensuring that people who are discharged from hospitals are eligible for crisis payments is a step toward a more compassionate and inclusive support structure. It is crucial that the system acknowledges the reality that recovery does not end upon leaving the hospital. By signing this petition, you are advocating for a change that will support countless Australians in their time of need, enabling them to recover with dignity and peace of mind. Please sign and help us bring about this vital change.

Thank you for all your support, WE DO NOT NEED financial support at this time but we would love if you could share this with people you know.